SPECIAL COVERAGE The Rare Blue-Headed Macaw in Tambopata

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Special Coverage: The Rare Blue-Headed Macaw in Tambopata

In the world of birdwatching, some encounters require patience, expertise, and sometimes a bit of luck. This was the case with our recent sighting of the rare blue-headed macaw (Primolius couloni), a discreet and uncommon species in the Peruvian Amazon. Thanks to the dedication and keen eye of Joselo Barazorda, field guide at Tambopata Research Center (TRC) and talented wildlife photographer, we were able to capture stunning images of this elusive macaw.

A Rare Sight in Tambopata

While its colorful relatives, the large macaws (Ara species like the Blue and Yellow macaw, the Scarlet Macaw and the Red and Green Macaw), are more common in this part of the Peruvian Amazon, experts say that the Blue-headed macaw is more frequently seen in Iquitos and the Central Amazon, where large macaws are less abundant. This makes every sighting in Tambopata a special moment, as this species is not as regularly observed here.

Most sightings of the Blue-headed macaw in Tambopata occur at the Colorado Clay Lick, where it has been observed more frequently compared to other areas. In contrast, it is only rarely seen in other parts of the region. This particular sighting took place there in the Colorado Macaw Clay Lick, the only known clay lick where this species has been documented consuming clay. Every day, hundreds of parrots and macaws gather here in a breathtaking display of color and sound. Though the blue-headed macaw is not unheard of in the area, each sighting is a moment worth celebrating.

The Challenge and Reward of Photographing Them

For wildlife photographers, capturing a clear image of this species is no easy task. Their elusive nature and preference for high treetops make them a difficult subject to photograph. However, with patience and expertise, Joselo Barazorda managed to take a series of striking images, showcasing its unique green plumage and distinctive blue head—a rare privilege for any nature enthusiast.

Explore Tambopata Research Center

Enjoy the Photo Coverage from Joselo Barazorda of the Rare Blue-Headed Macaw

Blue headed macaw by Joselo Barazorda

Blue Headed Macaw on claylick by Joselo Barazorda

Blue headed macaws flying by Joselo Barazorda

Blue headed macaws on clay lick by Joselo Barazorda

Conservation Status and Population

The blue-headed macaw is currently classified as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Although its population is not critically low, it is believed to be declining due to habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade. Estimates suggest that there are fewer than 10,000 mature individuals in the wild, with populations fragmented across Peru, Brazil, and Bolivia.

Unlike larger macaws, which are often the focus of conservation efforts, the blue-headed macaw receives less attention, making sightings like this one an important reminder of the need to protect its habitat. The vast and remote forests of Tambopata provide a crucial refuge for this species, reinforcing the importance of conserving these ecosystems.

Experience It for Yourself in Tambopata

Every visit to Tambopata Research Center offers the chance to witness extraordinary wildlife encounters. While the blue-headed macaw is never guaranteed, the region’s incredible biodiversity ensures that every outing is an adventure filled with surprises.

If you’re a nature lover or bird photography enthusiast, the Tambopata rainforest is the perfect place to seek out and capture unforgettable moments with rare species like this one. Are you ready for the challenge?

Read Now: Where Can I see Macaw in Peru?

By Rocio Guzmán

  • What our guest say

    • Valuation Excellent
    • 5/5

Nancy Hodgson March 2026

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AMJNZ November 2025

This trip was the highlight of our travels through peru. The lodge was absolutely 5 stars for everything. The room, food, people. We had a private guide, Allen, who grew up locally and really had deep knowledge of the land, the history, and the variety of plant and animal species in the jungle. His knowledge and passion were invaluable to our experience. There are a variety of tour companies and lodges you can book to visit the Amazon, however, I would only recommend Rainforest Expeditions as they are truly connected to the community and offer high quality first class amazon experience! Read all

We had a truly wonderful stay with Rainforest Expeditions. Everyone was incredibly kind and welcoming, and our guide was fantastic — very knowledgeable and passionate about the rainforest. We saw many animals, even from the boat, which made the experience unforgettable. Read all

I just spent 3 days here with my family. The research center surpassed all our expectations. I want to give a special shout out to Carlos who took such good care of us. He went above and beyond to make sure we werr comfortable. And he was always smiling. He made us feel so welcome. We had Erik as our guide who is so knowledgeable and experienced. We learned so much, saw so much wildlife. It really was a dream vacation. Thank you!! Read all

Chose this place to stay at the Amazon, as I heard it benefits the local indigenous community. Life changing experience. Oscar was an excellent guide! We saw so many wildlife! No 4th wall made it such an immersive jungle experience. Since they are eco friendly, there is no AC. It can get pretty hot depending on the season. So better to follow their guidance for clothing choices Read all

If you want to experience the Amazon in all its glory This is the place to come to Staff and guides were excellent Food was just incredible The forest walks were really interesting and informative Read all

If you are a birder, ask for Juan Carlos Yatto. He recognizes an astounding number of bird calls and can duplicate many of them. This place is magical, all I could have imagined. All the staff and scientists are incredible. The experience of a lifetime. Read all

This was the most amazing experience Very well organised The ground staff were so well organised The guides were excellent ( I’m looking at you Carlos!) Food was tasty and very varied Amazed that the chefs managed to get such variety in the middle of the Amazon Do not hesitate Book immediately you will not be disappointed. Highly recommended Read all

I can not say enough good things about my time at the Tambopata Research Center. Between the guides, the boat drivers, the chefs, the staff, the bartenders, the researchers, etc. Everyone was absolutely wonderful! If you are interested in viewing wildlife in the Amazon, this is the place for you! A special thank you to the maître d' Carlos who was so incredibly kind and hospitable and our guide Dino who was like a real life Indiana Jones. I can't wait to come back! Read all

An unforgettable, fully immersive jungle experience. Amazing how Tambopata Lodge delivers luxury touches in such a remote and rugged location. The food is fantastic, the staff incredible, and the wildlife sightings non-stop. The personalised itinerary and one-on-one guiding made the trip truly special—huge thanks to our guide Johan for sharing his passion and knowledge. The Macaw Project is inspiring, and it’s clear the lodge fully supports this important conservation work. Manager Brian was always kind, helpful. Well-done all involved. Read all

The most important fact we are grateful for is the true sense of understanding of the ecology of the Amazon the staff at Rainforest Expeditions (RFE) have shown us. RFE stands out for its stand against the pure, profit-motive initiatives many other tour operators do. We are very grateful to have had Carlos as our guide. Carlos is deeply dedicated, and is able to explain the nuances of the flora and fauna. The world today needs to act as one against the impact of climate change. RFE is one, bright shining light in this regard. Read all

We had a fabulous trip! The people were amazing, kind and very professional. The food was exceptionally good! The facilities are beautiful and well kept. We just loved our second time with Rainforest Expeditions and can't wait to go again!! Read all

Fantastic to be deep in the forest surrounded by incredible wildlife with our amazing guide Juan Carlos Yatto, who really knew his stuff! Also his photography skills meant that we could share our experience even better through his telescope using our phone cameras! We learned so much!! He went to extra lengths to find butterflies and moths for us along with so many different birds and monkeys. This was a travel highlight for us as experienced wildlife travellers. We loved our spacious room with no windows and open to more wildlife visitors but after 5 nights the bed could have been a little more comfortable. Luckily we had a second bed to use. Otherwise it was fantastic with hot water showers and fresh drinking water all the time. We were amazed at the variety of food on offer for breakfast, lunch and dinner and couldn’t believe they could have such a wonderful food offering in such a remote location. Even the wine and cocktails were great. I highly recommend spending the extra money and time getting to this location. We stayed at another lodge later which was closer to Puerto Maldonado and there was far less wildlife. Read all

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